John

Since graduating with a PGCE from The Institute of Education, where my dissertation was on English/Literacy  for young adults with learning differences, particularly  those with indicators of Global Learning Delay, Dyslexia, Autism and ADHD, I have worked for many years as an Intervention Teacher, responsible to the borough Head of SEN, and also as a one to one English tutor working with out of school students and young adults studying functional skills .

As  English and SEN specialist teacher, I enjoy developing work which reflects the young persons interests, which embeds the specific  skills they need moving forward and which offers pathways to success in Functional Skills and GCSE exams and which introduce them to a broader humanities curriculum.

I use explicit teaching, identify realistic targets and embed core skills. My focus is to provide a positive learning experience by developing a programme of study which engages the student at a personal level, which provides the requisite underpinning skills, knowledge and understanding to help the learner become more confident and more astute as a learner.

As well as developing English and language skills, I aim to improve verbal memory, processing speed, organisational skills and working memory skills. Critical thinking skills development underpin all work.

Each student receives a genuinely bespoke, realistic, yet challenging programme of study, using explicit teaching and continuous assessment to equip the student with the skills and confidence to move to the next level.

My approach builds on multi-sensory learning, and I build on student's visual and creative skills. Recognising that different students have preferred learning styles, I work to equip students with a broad range of learning strategies, working with weaknesses as well as strengths and developing task specific strategies.

I am particularly interested in developing confidence, a positive mindset and resilience.

I consider myself to be empathetic, flexible and focused.  I work hard to ensure that the student experience is personal, effective, rewarding and fun.

• Institute of Education, University of London, PGCE (English specialist);
• University of London B.A. (Hons.) Anthropology and Sociology (First Class)

I regularly attend relevant training, including training on Autism Awareness, ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia and Learning,   Mindset, Target Setting, Learning Styles, Social Anxiety and Behaviour Management, Evidence Based Teaching and GCSE English enhancement programmes.